Fiji is focused on strengthening its maritime training in Fiji, including potential train-the-trainer support, cadet pathways, international exposure opportunities, and ways to better align local training with international standards.
This after the California Polytechnic State University, FIJI Water, Neptune Pacific, Fiji National University (FNU), Ministry of National Planning, Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) and the US Embassy came together for a joint mini summit last week that explored future collaboration in maritime training, workforce development and industry-aligned career pathways.
During the summit, Neptune Pacific Career Centre director Carol Watkins said it was through their stakeholder partnerships and discussions when they identified the gap between the skills being developed and the skills needed in practice, particularly within the manufacturing and maritime sectors.
She said that was why a memorandum of agreement (MoA) was signed between FIJI Water, FNU and Neptune Pacific last year to establish a $14 million career centre.
“The centre was created as a solution which strengthened industry-aligned skills training and workforce development in Fiji,” Ms Watkins said in a statement.
California Polytechnic State University’s Professor Dawn Neill said the mini summit reflected a shared commitment to strengthen maritime education and to support industry-relevant training.
He said the collaboration was about stewardship, partnership and building long-term capability.
Meanwhile, FNU vice chancellor Prof Unaisi Nabobo-Baba said the outcome of the summit would help guide future discussions between the Career Centre, Cal Poly, FNU, government and industry partners, with priority areas identified for further exploration.
Cal Poly Training Ship cadet crews during the tour. Picture: SUPPLIED
A group shot on the Cal Poly Training Ship – Golden Bear during the reception ceremony. Picture: SUPPLIED
